Respect President, say ODM leaders

President Uhuru Kenyatta at a past event.

President Uhuru Kenyatta must be respected even if some leaders differ with him on policy issues, ODM leaders have said.

Eight Orange party MPs led by the Director of Political Affairs Opiyo Wandayi and Migori Senator Ochillo Ayacko, yesterday called for respect of the Presidency.

‘’Kenyan leaders must treat the Office of the President with the respect it deserves even when they disagree with some of its administration policies,’’ said Wandayi.

The MPs asked Kenyans to strive for peace and unity for the country to achieve meaningful development.

Wandayi and Ayacko said peace will depend on healthy respectful relationships between groups in apparent reference to ODM and Jubilee cohorts.

“In ODM we have resolved to respect the President and his office. We will remain loyal to the President until Raila Odinga tells us otherwise,” said Wandayi.

The crowds

The Ugunja MP who is also chairs the Public Accounts Committee in Parliament tickled the crowds when he disclosed that the party had taken a ‘’half-term break in Opposition.’’

“For us today, opposition and sting politics against the establishment has been put to a rest. We will firmly support the handshake unless advised otherwise by Raila,’’ he said.

Lawmakers Chris Omulele, (Luanda), Antoney Oluoch (Mathare), Ongondo Were (Kasipul-Kabondo), Owino (Awendo), Peter Masara (Suna West) also supported the handshake.

Masara said Luos have been in the cold for long for being branded Opposition supporters, adding and they will not accept to go against the establishment again.

The MPs were speaking during the burial of the late Rose Sirawa, mother of Awendo MP Walter Owino at Ombasa village in Dede, Migori on Friday.